phosphate issue

[polarbear]

So today I found out why I am starting to get a hair algae out break in my tank. I went to elegant reefs to pick up my BRS order. While I was there I had them test my phosphates and it was setting at .1 ppm. I use to use GFO in my dual reactor but when I ran out I didn't buy anymore since I didn't think I needed it. Well I learned my lesson not to stop using something just because I don't see an issue. No the fight is on to get rid of it. I'll be doing a water change on Saturday and will be hooking back up my GFO reactor. I'll also be going back to using my Dr. Tim's waste away since it will help replenish bacteria that will help reduce algae.

[350gt]

I don't have a reactor and no HA in my display tank. What is causing your phosphates is what you should be looking into.

[polarbear]

Ya the only thing would be my feeding habbits. I don't think I'm over feeding but that's the only thing I can think of.

[350gt]

How much are you feeding? Cause i feed Alot, 3 or more times aday... Including flakes and pellets.

[polarbear]

I just feed once a night. Frozen food with vitamins. Also put pellet food fort Foxface since he doesn't like the frozen food to much.

[Troy Valentine]

How old is your system?
I never saw a need to use GFO or any other kind of phosphate lowering media. Until I started having issues with stoney coral growth, and uncontrolable algae growth. It took 8+ years but it finally caught up with me. Near 0 Nitrates and .12 phosphates. So I started using GFO, and I notice within a month my calcification has greatly improved and algae growth has seem to subside. I feel your pain... Does it ever end with this hobby???

[polarbear]

My system is going on 13 months old in my house. I got it used from another member. They had it set up for a couple of years I think.

[SantaMonicaHelp]

Why don't you take a look at this thread, it'll help you reduce phosphate. :)
http://www.maast.org/showthread.php?70686-Lowest-cost-and-easiest-way-to-eliminate-green-hair-bubble-turf-and-slime-algae